Attorney Richard Stim specializes in small business, copyright, patents, and trademark issues at Nolo. He is the author of many books, including Music Law: How to Run Your Band's Business Patent, Copyright & Trademark: An Intellectual Property Desk Reference, and Profit From Your Idea. Stim regularly answers readers' intellectual property questions at Dear Rich: Nolo's Patent, Copyright & Trademark Blog.
Articles By Richard Stim
Will a Noncompete Agreement Stop Employees From Taking Your Trade Secrets?
To avoid losing valuable employees (and trade secrets) to competitors, many employers require employees to sign noncompetition agreements.
Licensing Artwork: Negotiating and Monitoring Royalty Payments
For an artist who successfully licenses artwork, royalty payments provide welcome additional income. But in order to maximize profits, an artist should take the time to negotiate a smart royalty deal.
Consideration: Every Contract Needs It
Under basic principles of contract law, consideration is the answer to the question, "Why are you entering this contract?" or "What are you receiving for being a party to this contract?" In order for any agreement to be deemed legally binding, it must include consideration on the part of every person or company that enters the contract. This article covers the basics of the consideration requirement, including real-world examples of consideration.
How to Negotiate a Business Contract: Strategies and Tips
Usually before you reach a business agreement, you'll need to negotiate. That is, sit down at the proverbial table -- with the other people or companies that are "parties" to the agreement -- and hammer out the details of the contract. If you're new at the game, or need a refresher, it's a good idea to review some of the tried-and-true negotiation strategies.
Fair Use: What Is Transformative?
In determining fair use, what makes the use of a copyrighted work "transformative"?
Who Owns the Rights to a Copyright?
The creator of a copyrighted work does not always own the copyright to that work. In some cases, an assignment or transfer can "give" other persons or entities ownership of the copyright.
Fair Use: When Copyrighted Material Can Be Used Without Permission
Fair use is a defense to a claim of copyright infringement based on the idea that the public is entitled to freely use portions of copyrighted materials for certain purposes, like commentary and criticism. When is fair use applied?
Trademark Class 35: Advertising and Business Services
Trademark Class 35 includes services for advertising, business management, administration, and office functions.
What Rights the First Sale Doctrine Gives to a Purchaser of a Copyrighted Work
Every day, millions of consumers make use of the first sale doctrine, to destroy authorized copies of copyrighted works.
Understanding U.S. Patent Application Process
There are several steps to obtaining a patent through the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office.